Indirect Support:
Rutherford Private School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Rutherford Private School: Progressive
Rutherford Private School has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
What Rutherford Private School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Our core curriculum places a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. We believe these subjects are the foundation of innovation and problem-solving in today's world.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Science and technology |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Rutherford Private School: Equal Balance
Rutherford Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Rutherford Private School says:
Our aim is to instill not just mathematical competence but also a love for the subject, fostering lifelong learners who are well-equipped to excel in mathematics and apply their skills in various fields.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Science approach at Rutherford Private School: Equal Balance
Rutherford Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Our science curriculum is designed to spark curiosity, cultivate critical thinking, and nurture a deep appreciation for the natural world. Our curriculum is inquiry-based, encouraging students to ask questions, conduct experiments, and draw conclusions. We integrate real-world applications and current events to show the relevance of science in daily life.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at Rutherford Private School: Equal Balance
Rutherford Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Rutherford Private School says:
Rutherford Private School offers a variety of different texts from classical studies to contemporary and local works. Students will not only investigate historical contexts and how they reveal fundamental truths about the human condition, but will also have the opportunity to voice their understanding of how the texts (plots) play out in their own lives. Students will be asked to critically examine all forms of literature brought into the classroom by devoting time to group project and personal reflections.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Rutherford Private School: Equal Balance
Rutherford Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Rutherford Private School says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Rutherford Private School: Equal Balance
Rutherford Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Rutherford Private School says:
Rutherford Private school is a diverse melting pot of nationalities and cultures. Primarily due to our heavy Russian speaking student body and location, we offer Russian grammar, reading and speaking courses as well as French and ESL and Mandarin for beginners. RPS caters to the international student and offers a basic to advanced level ESL course. Our teachers here are fluent in many languages including Russian, French, Italian and Spanish.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts What Rutherford Private School says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Rutherford Private School: Heavy integration
Rutherford Private School has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What Rutherford Private School says:
Our focus on STEM courses, along with our experienced instructors, provides students with hands-on, advanced understanding of digital literacy through the implementation of engineering, programming and web design.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Rutherford Private School says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
What Rutherford Private School says:
This information is not currently available.
Montessori Approach
Rutherford Private School's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| High | |
|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
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| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
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| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
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| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
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| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
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Overall approach
Non-orthodox
6% of schools
Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but often supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
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Special education
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
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Specialist classes
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
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Modern-day technology
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
Teaching assistants
This school uses teaching assistants.
Language
Learn about Rutherford Private School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Rutherford Private School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: This information is not currently available.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Rutherford Private School: Standard-enriched
Rutherford Private School has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Rutherford Private School says about their curriculum pace:
Our enriched curriculum goes beyond standard academics, offering students opportunities for deeper exploration in their areas of interest. Through advanced coursework, research projects, and partnerships with industry experts, we provide students with a challenging and intellectually stimulating environment to excel and reach their fullest potential.
Flexible pacing style
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
| Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
| Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
| Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
| Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
| Differentiated assessment |
What Rutherford Private School says about their flexible pacing:
Our educators work closely with students to create personalized study plans, addressing their unique strengths and areas for growth. Advanced learners can opt for accelerated programs that enable them to graduate early or take on more challenging coursework.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Rutherford Private School: Supportive
Rutherford Private School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Rutherford Private School says about their academic culture:
Our students range from the top 5% of most recognized outreach organizations in the province, such as Waterloo University Math and Computer Contest, FLL, and the Canadian Judo Federation, with a strong support for new enrollees seeking to achieve improved academic results. We ensure that the basic skills of literacy, writing, numeracy and scientific competence are developed.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority:
Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What Rutherford Private School says about their developmental priorities:
Our developmental priorities extend beyond academic achievement to shape students into well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in a rapidly evolving world.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
What Rutherford Private School says about their special need support:
RPS does not provide a special needs program.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What Rutherford Private School says:
RPS provides limited accommodations for students with ADHD, Autism and other mild learning and physical disabilities.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
Class structure
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
In-class adaptations
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
| Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
| Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
| Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
| Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What Rutherford Private School says about their gifted learner support:
RPS has a strong belief in the power of STEAM education. This outlet provides students with "hands-on" co-op experience, giving them the opportunity to earn high school credits as well as gaining valuable working experience.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
Rutherford Private School offers 0 competitive sports and 7 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Cycling
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Rutherford Private School offers 14 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Foreign Language Club
Math Club
Outdoor Club
Outdoor Education
Robotics club
School newspaper
Science Club
Student Council
Yearbook
Yoga
Animation
Chess Club
Community Service
Computer Club
